Related Experiment Videos
Hepatitis B viral markers in Bushmen at Schmidtsdrift, South Africa: baseline studies for immunisation
1Department of Virology, Medical University of Southern Africa, Medunsa.
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) seroprevalence was studied in 400 San Bushmen. 57% showed HBV markers, indicating an intermediate to high exposure rate, recommending immunisation for susceptible individuals.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Controlling Hepatitis B virus (HBV) requires understanding its prevalence in diverse populations.
- Baseline data on HBV markers is crucial for implementing effective immunisation programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers in a San Bushmen community.
- To establish a baseline for a potential HBV immunisation program.
- To investigate potential HBV mutant circulation based on sole serological markers.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing for HBV markers was conducted on 400 San Bushmen.
- Participants were from a community translocated from Northern Namibia to South Africa.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected in 6.8% of individuals.
- 57.0% of the population exhibited one or more markers of HBV infection.
- 43.0% showed no evidence of prior HBV exposure.
Conclusions:
- The HBV exposure rate of 57.0% is considered intermediate to high compared to global figures.
- Immunisation is recommended for seronegative individuals to prevent HBV infection.
- Analysis of sole serological markers (anti-HBc or anti-HBs) may reveal HBV mutant strains within the community.
Abstract:
In an effort to control hepatitis B virus (HBV), the prevalence rates of the virus need to be ascertained in different regions or populations. As a baseline for a hepatitis B immunisation programme, the seroprevalence of HBV markers was determined in 400 San Bushmen from a community who were translocated from Northern Namibia to South Africa. HBsAg was detected in 6.8% while 57.0% showed one or more markers of HBV infection. The balance of the population (43.0%) showed no evidence of previous exposure to HBV. The HBV exposure rate of 57.0% is intermediate to high with reference to internationally reported figures and protection of seronegative individuals through immunisation is recommended. Individuals without possible natural immunity against HBV such as those with anti-HBc or anti-HBs as a sole marker may provide insight into the circulation of HBV mutants in this community, since these sole markers could be seroconversion in response to a mutant HBV strain.